Various parties in and around Dutch ornamental plant cultivation join forces to spread a positive message during the corona crisis: flowers and plants contribute to public health. With the hashtag #flowers4oxygen, they symbolically supply the world with much-needed oxygen through information and various actions.

The world's population is suffering from the spread of the coronavirus (COVID-19), the disease that broke out in the Wuhan region of China at the end of December 2019. The population in Western Europe has also been hit hard by the virus. Global measures such as home isolation and even complete lockdowns must prevent further spread. But what more can people do to stay healthy? According to various studies, flowers and plants contribute positively to public health.

Plants give us oxygen

The coronavirus causes respiratory complaints. Studies have shown that plants release oxygen and moisture to their environment through photosynthesis (converting sunlight into energy) and cell respiration. Increased humidity leads to improved respiration in humans. The NASA Clean Air Study conducted at the end of the last century also shows that plants are effective in purifying the air of toxic substances. By absorbing and breaking down harmful substances, plants create a healthier indoor climate.

Flowers make us happy

In addition to possible health problems, this difficult period feels uncertain for the entire world population. The same research shows that the presence of flowers removes feelings of anxiety and stress. In addition to brightening up the environment that everyone will see a lot in this period, the presence of flowers therefore have a positive contribution to mental health.

Flower and plant art installation at the Keukenhof

#flowers4oxygen will kick off with a gigantic flower and plant art installation at the famous Dutch flower park Keukenhof. This piece of art will be created by Dutch award-winning floral artist Sarah Dikker.